Red Sox trade left-hander Connelly Early to Nationals for infielder Curtis Mead
Boston sent rookie pitcher Connelly Early to Washington in exchange for third-baseman Curtis Mead as both clubs look to strengthen their rosters for the playoff push.
Boston and Washington have completed a one-for-one trade, sending left-handed pitcher Connelly Early to the Nationals in return for infielder Curtis Mead, according to ESPN reporter Jeff Passan. The transaction has not yet been announced by either team.
Early, 24, posted a 3.44 ERA over 17 starts in his first full major-league season before missing time in July with elbow inflammation. He is expected to join Washington’s rotation as a top-three starter once fully healthy, adding depth to a staff that has relied on a mix of starters and relievers.
Mead, 25, has emerged as Washington’s primary third baseman, posting a 135 wRC+ in 322 plate appearances this season and hitting 17 home runs. He carries four years of team control after the 2024 campaign. The Nationals hope his offensive production will bolster a lineup that already leads the league in runs.
Boston, currently holding the final AL wild-card spot, gains a player who contributed 5 home runs in his first 152 major-league games and has shown improved contact metrics under the Nationals’ development staff. The Red Sox retain depth in their rotation, with Jake Bennett and Patrick Sandoval stepping in while Ranger Suárez recovers from injury.
The trade also creates a vacancy at third base for Washington. Prospect Brady House, who has been performing well in the minors, is expected to be recalled to fill the position.